I have shared the stage with the likes of the finest musicians and artists that New Jersey has to offer, as well as the occasional sit in with national acts.
Currently i perform with a backing band known as The New Rick BarrysThey are:
Justin Bornemann:Bass
Andy Bova:Drums
Ben Feld:Piano
Joe Harvard:Guitars
Influences
Sounds Like
A tree falling in the woods with no one there to hear it, or Counting Crows without any balls.
Rick Barry is New Jersey’s premier Songwriter. Beginning with the release of his debut Rock/Pop LP, “SMALL TOWN POLITICS”, Rick Barry embarked on a cross-country tour, performing in over 25 different cities throughout the course of a few months time. He returned home after selling out all of his records and brought with him an arsenal of new music born of inspirational adventures. The Star Ledger dubbed Barry "A New jersey Visionary”.
In 2006 he became the first Folk musician to have two songs awarded in the final four by the John Lennon Songwriting contest. He also caught the interest of Neil Young, who posted Rick's award winning song "Courage for a Rainy Day" on his website, listing it as one of the "top songs of the times." New Jersey publications such as The Star Ledger, The Aquarian, and Upstage Magazine have labeled Rick amongst the most promising and vital artists of our decade.
In early 2007 the Aquarian, New Jersey and New York's leading music publication featured Rick in a cover story and demonstrated the fact that Rick was definitely "Shrinking The Pond" in New Jersey. His appearance was the second cover to feature an unsigned artist in the magazines history. Following Rick's 2nd place prize in the Unisong international songwriting competition, He was Nominated For a 2007 Independent Music Award for "Social Action."
Rick has acquired numerous Asbury Park Music Award nominations. The AMA’s are comparable to the prestigious Boston Music Awards and he has been quite prominent and active within their circle. Most recently he received his third consecutive Asbury Music award Win for top acoustic performer.
Rick has shared the stage with many of national acts including Patti Smith, Pete Yorn, Will Hoge, Jesse Malin, Joan Jett, Nada Surf, G Love and Special Sauce, Sonic Youth, Mike Doughty, Roger Clyne, Josh Ritter, The Damnwells and Moe. In 2007 Rick performed in the round to over 2000 people along side artists Pat Dinizio (the Smithereens) and John Easedale (Dramarama) at the famous Starland Ballroom in Sayreville, NJ
Rick continues to develop as an artist, without forgetting the original style that defines him. With the combined efforts of melodic hooks, clever lyrics, and an emotional voice, he delivers enjoyable and thought provoking performances, Through the eyes of a colorful spectrum of characters, Rick spins tales of murder, addiction, love and existential dilemma of all types. All of the songs, told through different points in life, produce the same undertone of characters locked in the eternal search for happiness and redemption. His music is conceptually unique and should be explored by anyone who truly holds an appreciation for intelligent folk.
Rick's latest record, "Declaration Of Codependence (the Solo Recordings of Rick Barry)" was released in early 2007 and has achieved positive acclaim among the area’s leading publications.
Hey Rick, We played at the Saint together a little while back. You actually inspired me to write a new song. I really like your stuff and totally want to get involved with this "in Progress" night of yours!
